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Month XX, 2012 PALMERSTOWN • CELBRIDGE • LEIXLIP • ADAMSTOWN • DODSBORO • LIFFEY VALLEY • BALLYOWEN

INSIDE: Let our Bride & Groom supplement help make your big day even better See P20 - 23

A DAY IN THE LIFE: Singer Mary Coughlan talks life on the road and all that jazz P13

Hitting the right note: Niamh shows off talent Biking:

Dublin downhill racer has top world debut Page 31

NIAMH Cawley from Mad for Trad

Festival Orchestra is pictured at one of the events her group performed at during the recent Ruaille Buaille Lucan Children’s Music Festival 2015. The festival featured a week of exciting music workshops, performances and outdoor events, suitable for all ages. Ruaille Buaille was the perfect environment for children and their families to celebrate making and experiencing music.

Picture: Jolanta Rossiter

Football:

Gavin reserved on Kildare semi match up Page 32

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ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES.................... 10 DUBLIN LIFE.................. 13 OUT&ABOUT ..................17 CLASSIFIEDS ................26 SPORT ...........................28

Grant aid ahead for lead pipe replacement Mixed reaction to news of funds for for up to 200,000 affected households

 IAN BEGLEY

MANY Lucan and Clondalkin homeowners with lead pipes delivering water to their homes may qualify for a grant of up to €4,000, Environment Min-

ister Alan Kelly announced last week. It is not clear at this stage if applicants must register with Irish Water to qualify. The scheme is part of a national strategy to reduce lead in drinking water. Lead

pipes were commonly used in houses built up to 1970 and around 200,000 homes across the country are estimated to be affected. Cllr Eoin O Broin (SF) told The Gazette that there is a growing concern about

the issue in Dublin MidWest. “People are now concerned and upset that if their water contains lead they still have to pay water charges to Irish Water,” he said Full Story on Page 2

2 LUCAN Gazette 18 June 2015

health 30- to 40-year-old homes may have hazardous pipes

Irish Water advise checking for lead Manyhomeowners from Lucan and Clondalkin with lead pipes delivering water to their homes may qualify for a grant of up to €4,000, Environment Minister Alan Kelly announced last week. It is not clear at this stage if applicants must register with Irish Water to qualify. The scheme, which will be a budgetary measure, is part of a national strategy to reduce lead in drink-

 ian begley ibegley@gazettegroup.com

ing water. Households earning up to €50,000 qualify for the maximum €4,000, while those on €50,000 to €75,000 will get €2,500.

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When consumed, lead harms the kidneys and can affect brain development in babies in the womb and young children, according to the HSE and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Lead pipes were commonly used in houses built up to 1970 and around 200,000 homes across the country are estimated to be affected by lead contamination. Irish Water has now begun writing to almost 28,000 households in the country it knows are affected. Local Cllr Eoin O Broin (SF) told The Gazette that although many residents

within his constituency haven’t raised issues to him regarding lead pipes, there is still a growing concern in Dublin MidWest. He said: “People are now concerned and upset that if their water contains lead that they still have to pay water charges to Irish Water. “The council no longer have any responsibility for their resident’s water supply – it’s Irish Water’s problem and they now have to deal with it.” Although South Dublin County Council are no longer in charge of Dublin Mid-West’s water supply, they have published a document

Summer Heritage events A PROGRAMME of heritage events for summer 2015 has been officially launched in Dublin MidWest by South Dublin County Council Libraries and Arts. Running from June to September 2015, the schedule celebrates the county’s many historical and heritage sites, as well as offering talks, exhibitions, craft events and interactive workshops. Outdoor events encourage visitors and residents alike to enjoy the mountains and waterways of south County Dublin. Focusing on the history and heritage schedule, Mayor of South Dublin County Fintan Warfield (SF) is encouraging South Dublin County residents and visitors alike to “immerse” themselves in the area’s history this summer with this “wonderful programme of events”.

Homeowners are advised to check their water to see if they have lead pipes

advising people of how to detect and what to do if their water contains lead. “Inside your premises look behind the cupboards in your kitchen and find the pipe leading to the kitchen tap, check

if it is lead along as much of its length as possible. “Outside the premises open the stopcock cover on the footpath and see if you can identify the pipework material on the service pipe. “Whether you have

lead piping or not you should only use water drawn from the kitchen tap for cooking or drinking. Do not drink water drawn from the bathroom taps. Boiling water does not remove lead.” See Opinion on Page 8

18 June 2015 LUCAN Gazette 3

council Breaking into sports industry

scheme: €1 million to help group provide the best care possible

Funding available for home carers  Ian Begley

Home Carers from Dublin Mid-West are being urged to apply for a new €1m support and training fund now available. The funding, sourced from the Dormant Accounts Fund, was recently announced by Tanaiste and Social Protection Minister Joan Burton and confirmed in association with National Carers’ Week. The purpose of the scheme is to upskill carers to help them provide the best care possible, to reduce their risk of injury, and help them cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of their role. Welcoming the scheme,

TD Robert Dowds (Lab) said: “Home carers play a vital role in many families across Clondalkin, Lucan and Palmerstown. It is important that the Government supports their valuable work and I want to thank my colleague and party leader Joan Burton, for giving this scheme the green light because it will ensure that carers get much-needed support in the community.” Eligible groups in Clondalkin, Lucan and Palmerstown should apply to get their share of funding when the application process gets underway on July 1. In addition, four preapplication regional meetings will also take place around the country

during June. Full details on how to register for the pre-application meetings are available on www.pobal.ie Meanwhile, to coincide with Carers’ Week, nominations for this year’s Irish Red Cross Carer of the Year Award are now open to anyone who wants the chance to have a voluntary carer celebrated for their work looking after loved ones. Every year the Irish Red Cross recognises the work of voluntary carers across Ireland through the award which this year offers the winner €1,500 and a weekend hotel break in Ireland. For further information, posters or nomination forms, call 01 642 4639.

All geared-up: Cross-country cycle promotes awareness of services cyclists from Lucan were among over 300 riders to take part in a

cross-country mission recently to highlight the fight against suicide. The 200km Console East-West cycle from Kildare to Galway promoted awareness of the services provided by the national suicide prevention and bereavement charity. Pictured at the event are cyclists Darren Bosonnett from Lucan and Kevin Fox from Rathfarnham. Console can be reached at any time on freephone 1800 247 247 and many resources and useful information can be found at www.console.ie. Picture: Conor McCabe

YOUNG people interested in breaking into the sports industry or furthering their educational opportunities are being encouraged to take part in the council’s Sportivate programme. The programme, a joint initiative of South Dublin County Council and the Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board, caters for participants primarily aged 18 to 25. Those who get a place will learn many aspects and requirements of the sports industry and will also develop the necessary practical skills to enable to secure employment in the industry or enhance their prospects of going onto further education.The closing date to apply is June 12. For information, visit www.sdcc.ie or email sportivatesd@ddletb.ie.

4 LUCAN Gazette 18 June 2015

The Irish Wildlife Trust has teamed up with Lucan Tidy Towns to record the levels of biodiversity along a selected stretch of roadside in Lucan. Lucan Tidy Towns along with the Irish Wildlife Trust have completed a survey of the roadsides in Lucan and have chosen the area directly opposite the entrance to Roselawn Estate as a sample area. This roadside will be left uncut for the summer in order for the group to study the biodiversity of the roadside and to develop biodiversity friendly management regimes. This project aims to educate community groups of the wildlife value of roadsides. Groups will learn basic flora and fauna identifications skills, complete surveys and develop roadside management plans.

Baldonnel Investment of €40m in new centre

Industrial hub to bring major jobs boost  Ian Begley

INVESTMENT of €40m in a state-of-the-art industrial hub along with hundreds of jobs is on the cards for Dublin MidWest. Mountpark Logistics EU recently bought a 35-acre site in Baldonnel, Clondalkin, and has promised to create 120 jobs during the construction phase of the centre whose targeted start-up date is late 2015. There will also be up to 150 additional ancillary serv-

ices jobs. Welcoming the investment Minister Frances Fitzgerald, said: “It’s great to see more and more companies investing in our local economy. Overall, this investment could deliver 1,000 jobs to Baldonnel and the surrounding areas. “This investment is a further sign that our economy is strengthening, the Government’s Action Plan for Jobs is working and Ireland’s reputation as a fantastic place to invest is increasing.

“I look forward to continuing efforts to build a real recovery and being part of a Government which delivers stability and smart economic management for our future. “I’ll continue to work with my Fine Gael councillors on South Dublin County Council to support ongoing developments on the Naas Road including in the context of the next county development plan.” Formed in 2014, the firm is already engaged in

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Minister Frances Fitzgerald: “It’s great to see more and more companies investing in our local economy.”

projects in the UK, Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The Baldonnel site is Mountpark’s eighth logistics investment in Europe and in total the company has committed to investing up to €350m across these projects. Phillip O’Callaghan, of Mountpark described the Baldonnel site as “ideally located” and which would

“provide a wide range of job opportunities and an economic boost to the area”. He said: “We are delighted to have acquired this ideally located site in Baldonnel and believe the development will provide a wide range of job opportunities and an economic boost to the area. We look forward to developing

high quality logistics units in South County Dublin for Irish and International businesses.” Mountpark has indicated that they intend to commence development once statutory approvals are achieved. Following start of construction they will begin to market the properties to potential tenants.

18 June 2015 LUCAN Gazette 5

don’sdublin The Iron Duke’s rise from a humdrum Irish life to a place in history ONE of the most decorated soldiers in history was born in Upper Merrion Street, Dublin in 1769 – the same year as his great nemesis, Napoleon Bonaparte. The son of a noble but impoverished family, Arthur Wellesley did not show much flair for anything other than playing the violin when he joined the army as an ensign in 1787, having been withdrawn from college due to a downturn in the family’s finances. After his proposal of marriage to Kitty Pakenham had been turned down, he applied himself to military life with a determination of purpose that was to be his trademark and strength. Suitably prepared, he used his skill to good effect while in India, after which he had become a rich man and promoted to major-general. Years later, his troops expelled the French from Spain, for which he was awarded the title Duke of Wellington. Wellington was in charge of the British and Dutch forces at Waterloo. June 18, 1815 has gone down as one of the most momentous days in European history, when Wellington – who was facing Napoleon for the first time on the battlefield – survived enormous early attacks and won the day with the late, and critical, arrival of Marshal Blucher’s Prussian army. A political career beckoned and he became a minister in 1819, and prime minister in 1828. It was during his time in Downing Street that Catholic emancipation was granted (1829). The good people of Ireland (in fact, he denied his Irishness by proclaiming “that not everyone born in a barn was a horse”) had already shown their respect by raising more than £20,000 for the erection of the Wellington Monument in the Phoenix Park. The reliefs around the base of the monument were cast from captured cannon guns – appropriate indeed, as they recount the heroic life of one known to history as “The Iron Duke”.

Don Cameron www.donsdublin. wordpress.com

The distinctive shape of the Wellington Monument in the Phoenix Park

programme Public urged to show support and vote

Canoeist Egan on track for Nissan WELL-KNOWN Lucan canoeist Jenny Egan is on track to become Nissan Generation Next ambassador, having shown her potential to secure a berth at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. Egan, aged 28, is now one step away from getting her hands on

the steering wheel of a brand new Nissan to drive for a year. And she wants the public to help her achieve her aim by voting for her. Voting

Egan was among hundreds of applicants nationwide who threw their cap in the ring for

this year’s programme and she is now one of 20 finalists who have won through to the public voting phase. “My weekly training schedule is extremely intense completing 14 to 16 sessions. A Nissan would help me in my day-to-day training schedule, allowing me

to have more time to rest between sessions therefore enhancing my recovery process,” she said. Egan is calling on everyone in Lucan to get behind her and give her their vote. The six individuals with the largest number of votes will win a place

on the Nissan Generation Next programme. Support

Those interested in voting to support Egan for the ambassadorship can do so online by visiting www.nissangenerationnext.ie and casting their vote anytime up to July 6.

6 LUCAN Gazette 18 June 2015

report Urgent call for Government to increase funding

Number of homeless families has risen by 20%  ian begley

THE number of families listed as homeless has risen by 20% in south County Dublin since the start of the year with urgent calls for the Government to increase funding for social housing. In January, the area’s homeless households stood at 233 but in April it was 287. This announcement was recently published in the form of a detailed report by the council’s Housing Section at the request of Cllr Eoin O Broin (SF). The report also showed a decrease in the number of people presenting themselves to the homeless service unit since January

from 238 to 224 in April. The number of families assessed as “immediately at risk” also saw a drop from 36 in January to 11 in April. The council stated that it currently has 79 families (with 206 children) placed in hotels or B&B accommodation across the Dublin region. A spokesperson said: “All families placed in emergency accommodation (including hotels) are referred to Focus Ireland new presenters team for assessment and care planning in order to identify all housing options available to families and support them out of homeless services. “South Dublin County Council made 33 allocations to applicants reg-

istered homeless during the period January 1, 2015 to April 30, 2015 with 18 of these allocations (which represents 27 adults and 43 children) to families placed into hotel / B&B accommodation.” Commenting on these figures, Cllr O’Broin (SF) said: “Many of these families are living in totally unsuitable emergency accommodation in local hotels or city centre hostels. “While the acquisition of 65 temporary accommodation units in Tallaght Cross is welcome this will not address the growing crisis. In fact, the problem is set to get worse. “There is no let-up in the number of individuals and families presenting

“There is no let-up in the number of individuals and families presenting as homeless” – Cllr Eoin O Broin (SF)

as homeless. Difficulties with rent supplement, rising rent costs and rising house repossessions are driving the homeless crisis. “The ongoing lack of investment in social housing means that the long-term housing solutions are simply not available. In the meantime families are being forced to live in unsuitable accommodation. We now have a waiting list for people to get into emergency accommodation.

“ C e n t r a l g ove r n ment must significantly increase the funds available to the council to build and buy more social housing,” he said. A spokesperson for the Department of Environment said Minister Alan Kelly recently announced the first major direct build social housing programme with the start up of over 100 separate housing projects. Speaking about the programme, Minister Kelly said: “This is the

first major investment in local authority housing for many years. This announcement will see over 1,700 housing units delivered over a three-year period, creating about 300 jobs in construction with all of these projects being assessed in under a twomonth period. “It represents a good start but with much more needing to be done. For many years during the Celtic Tiger, house building was something many local authorities got out

of. It has taken time, but with about 300 additional housing staff in local authorities, including planners and architects, the funding that is coming on stream, aggressive investment and action are being taken to tackle the housing crisis. “Between local authorities and the voluntary housing sector, there are now over 150 social housing projects under construction which will in time have an impact on housing waiting lists,” he said.

Plan for 1916 Rising events  ian begley

A PROGRAMME of events to mark the 1916 centenary in association with Ireland 2016 and the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht is being developed, according to the council. As outlined in its annual budget for 2015, South Dublin County Council has set aside €50,000 for the activities recommended by the 1916 Commemoration Committee which will be further augmented in the 2016 budget. The national programme is

a year-long agenda of activity in which everyone is invited to participate, to commemorate the events of the 1916 Rising, to reflect on our achievements as a democratic state over the last 100 years and to look towards Ireland’s future. Cllr Francis Timmons (Ind) welcomed the news, saying: “As we approach the centenary, I think we should reflect on what type of Ireland we want going forward. I would love to see a conversation nationally on this. I would like to see a nation that cherishes all the

children of the nation equally. “I hope the fund is used to unite the past with our present and to pay homage to our great leaders of 1916 that died so we could have freedom.” Timmons believes it is equally important to remember the many women of 1916 who played a big part in Ireland becoming a Republic. To get involved and register your ideas, stories and to join with the programme of events for 2016 visit www.2016.southdublin.ie.

18 June 2015 LUCAN Gazette 7

Balgaddy ‘Serious issues of crime, particularly against women and children’

‘Daylight attacks’ a major concern  Ian Begley

Women and children from Balgaddy are being attacked in broad daylight with many incidents racially motivated, according to a local resident and candidate for the Worker’s Party. Speaking to The Gazette, Lorraine Hennessy, said she is concerned about the level of personal protection that is being provided by the gardai to the residents of the Balgaddy Community. She said: “There are serious issues of crime, par ticularly against women and children, which residents believe

are being ignored or downplayed. “We’ve had numerous cases of women and children being attacked in broad daylight in view of other children, being carjacked, having their property damaged, their windows smashed. “Many of those attacks are racially motivated. Yet there’s little reporting of racism. There’s nobody looking at why all of these attacks are happening on vulnerable people. “Minister Fitzgerald was made aware of the situation five years ago. She has gone through her tenure as Minister

with responsibility for children and is now responsible for justice but to date has made no progress in dealing with those serious issues of violence against women and children. “This community must be treated with respect and dignity and the residents are entitled to feel safe, both in their homes and as they walk the streets. Their right to safety is a basic human right. “There is an issue with the level of protection the gardai are able to provide as well as with the level of reporting of crime. The latter probably reflects a lack of

confidence by the community in the Garda Service.” Hennessy went on to say that she has written to Minister Fitzgerald, requesting a meeting to discuss Garda and safety issues in the Balgaddy area of North Clondalkin. Responding to her request, Cllr William Lavelle (FG) who was asked to answer on behalf of the Minister said: “The Minister is very aware of the ongoing local affairs in Balgaddy regarding antisocial behaviour. “She has ongoing contacts and has met with a large number of residents in the area and continues

Lorraine Hennessy (WP) is concerned about the level of personal protection being provided by gardai to the residents of the Balgaddy Community

to do so on an ongoing basis. The Minister has been very active in the Balgaddy area and only recently has managed to secure funding to secure the ongoing operation of the Balgaddy Child and Family Centre.”

Cllr Lavelle went on to say that in relation to crime and antisocial behaviour, Fitzgerald has recently announced a €125,000 diversion project - a programme preventing and tackling youth crime in the South

Lucan area, including Balgaddy. “Minister Fitzgerald is going to continue working with Balgaddy residents and hopes to have further meetings shortly with residents from the area,” said Lavelle.

8 LUCAN Gazette 18 June 2015

opinion Public health demands action over water purity

Get the lead out – but this may not be easy

The Green Party’s Ciaran Cuffe considers the challenge and need to address replacing the nation’s hazardous pipework LEAD has hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons in recent weeks. High levels of lead in some drinking water supplies have raised concerns about the risks to human health, and households are demanding answers on who will pick up the tab to pay for improvements to water supplies. Lead is a neurotoxin that accumulates in soft tissues and the bones. Excessive, high levels of exposure can damage the nervous system and cause damage to the brain. People are right to express concern about levels of lead in drinking water, but it is important to put the risks in perspective. The amount of lead we are exposed to has diminished significantly over recent years. Lead was once added to petrol and to paint, but this is no longer permitted. The maximum amount of lead permitted in our water was reduced to 10 microgrammes per litre from the first of January 2014, down from a previous level of 25mcg per litre. For most families, the risks of excessive lead exposure come from the ingestion of food, dirt and dust, but a significant number of household water supplies with high lead levels have been detected. This is happening because old lead pipework still remains in some of the pipes that distribute

drinking water into and inside our homes. The recent reports from Irish Water have shown us that in many streets around our capital, these levels are being exceeded. This can be a particular risk for younger children who may be fed milk formula from these drinking water supplies. Flushing the water supply by turning on a cold taps for a few seconds before taking water can reduce lead levels, but in some instances parents may wish to use bottled water to ensure lower lead levels. Boiling water is not recommended, as it can actually increase lead levels. The only real solution to lead contamination is to remove lead pipes, and this can be costly. Figures of more than €4,000 have been mentioned for replacing pipe supplies, but in most instances the costs should be far below this. For those living in areas where high lead levels have been detected, a plumber can advise on the costs of replacing any contaminated pipework. It is important to put the risks from lead in context. The Irish Environmental Protection Agency publishes biannual reports on water quality in Ireland and regularly raises concerns about the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. Coli), as well as the organisms cryptosporidium and tri-

Cllr Ciaran Cuffe: “Figures of ... €4,000 have been mentioned for replacing pipe supplies, but in most instances the costs should be far below this”

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The only sustainable solution to lead contamination is to replace any lead or lead-soldered pipework ... now a political hot potato for the current Government and Irish Water

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halomethanes, which are a by-product of disinfection. There have been significant health concerns around cryptosporidium in water supplies in Galway City, Carlow and Roscommon in recent times. Pesticides in water supplies are also a matter

of concern, and the addition of fluoride has been a matter of some controversy. Private wells are at risk of contamination from septic tanks and their percolation areas. The good news is that contamination levels of most municipal supplies has reduced

significantly in recent years, due to investment in the water supply and treatment systems. Much of the funding for this has been significantly grant-aided by European funds. The 1998 European Union Drinking Water Directive compels our government to protect human health from adverse effects of any contamination of water intended for human consumption by ensuring that it is wholesome and clean. The only sustainable solution to lead contamination is to replace any lead or lead-soldered

pipework. The responsibility for achieving this is now a political hot potato for the current Government and Irish Water, but it is clear that it will take many years to fully remove lead from the Irish water supply network. Irish Water must be more transparent about releasing reports that they have regarding drinking water quality if they are to gain public confidence. Many regard this as an uphill task. Given the costs of replacing pipework, it is crucial that a grant system to help householders

remove lead pipes is up and running as quickly as possible. Those living on streets where high lead levels have been detected are right to demand urgent action. Parents are right to be concerned. As the Government enters its last few months, the Minister for the Environment will be carefully watched to see if he can put in place a clear and fair solution to tackle this public health challenge. It is no easy task, but it must be done. Cllr Ciaran Cuffe (GP), Dublin City Council

18 June 2015 LUCAN GAZETTE 9

THE CONGO Organisation’s effectiveness and set-up ‘were very impressive’

‘Flying pharmacist’ lands back in Lucan

 IAN BEGLEY

LUCAN native Laura McMeel has just returned from the Congo where she spent six months working as a “flying pharmacist” with the Nobel Peace prize-winning medical humanitarian organisation Doctors Without Borders/ Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF). McMeel was based in South Kivu, a remote province in the east of the country, where often the only thing to do at night was “walk to the shop and buy a can of coke”. As a pharmacist, McMeel was responsible for the distribution of

drugs to patients and the replenishment of stocks in three MSF medical projects across a country roughly 33 times the size of Ireland. “At home, pharmacies can receive two or three deliveries of stock a day, ensuring they never run out. Instead, I had to estimate what we would use for the next four months. [Doctors Without Borders] do a lot of work around disease prevention and organise large anti-malaria drives. “For example the project I was working with in Baraka uses a boat loaded with thousands of mosquito nets and goes from village to village dispensing nets,”

she said. When McMeel landed in the city of Baraka, one of the main roads in the town had to be closed off and used as the runway. Forty or so day workers in high-vis jackets were hired to thread a huge rope down the length of the road/runway, primarily to keep back the overly-inquisitive local children. She added that being able to speak the local language [French] was of great importance to the success of a mission, saying: “The relationships one makes with the national staff are very influential on how well you get on, how productive you are and how

rewarding an experience it can be. “My French is good but not brilliant, and it can be frustrating when you can’t ar ticulate yourself as well as you could in your mother tongue.” Laura went on to say that she was very impressed by the effectiveness and set-up of MSF in the Congo. “As an organisation, MSF spend a lot of time strategically thinking how best to use the resources and money they have. “A lot of experts work for MSF, and do so in a grateful and mindful way, making sure resources are being utilised as efficiently as possible.” Medecins Sans Frontieres has been working in the Democratic Republic of Congo since 1981, providing free medical care to people who wouldn’t otherwise have access to medical treatment. MSF also provides training and employment to local people. MSF Ireland welcomes applications from pharmacists and many other medical and non-medical professionals to work overseas on an on-going basis. For fur ther information, see www.msf. ie/workwithus or call 01-6603337.

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Laura with Emmanuel Fadhilli, a colleague of hers

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Bibi Bulambu and Nicole Macarie

Robert Mahon, Bob Ayeni, Steven Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien, Tara Roach, Sandra Deane, Martha Suberlak, Pat Byrne, LizQuinn, Thomas Brutan and Ger Freeman at an open day for the Irish Wheelchair Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resource and outreach centre on the Newcastle Road, Lucan. The centre is a modern facility and comprises a day service for adults with physical and sensory disabilities and a youth service for young adults living across south Dublin. Pictures: Cathy Weatherston

Irish Wheelchair Association: centre holds open day

Centre reaching out to deliver sterling service

Chris Hoey, Ciaran McLoughlin and Janet Healy

Audrey and Stephen Lynch and Aine Byrne Beads

Art teacher Israel Casimpoy and Anita Matthews

Pottery teacher Elena Buttner and Marion Cullen

18 June 2015 LUCAN Gazette 11

Joan Knott and Michael McDonagh

Les Rooney

John Brodrick and Mick Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Byrne

Sandra Deane and Tom Bruton

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Nancy, baby Alfie and Adrian Needham. Picture: James Martin

Riverfest in full flow huge array of activities kept the crowds entertained including the arrival of three tall ships and four schooners which berth at North Wall Quay for the weekend. The Jeanie Johnston was once again offering free tours and Dublin tug boat Shackleton and Beaufort’s Tug Boat Dances were back by public demand.

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orth Wall Quay once again played host to the Dublin Port’s Riverfest over the June bank holiday. Organised by the Dublin Port Company and the Docklands Business Forum, the event is a unique celebration along the historic quays with a jam-packed programme of entertainment and family fun. A

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Mary Coughlan: “My daughter, Claire, lives with me and she has a two-and-a-half-year-old son. So we have a great time running around the house with him.”

a day in the life: singer mary coughlan is busy with family and touring

Songs, CDs and smoothies  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

AS SHE made her way around the country gigging and promoting her new album, Scars on the Calendar, singer Mary Coughlan took time out to chat to The Gazette about a day in her busy life. “I get up at around 7am, sometimes earlier and sometimes later. My routine for the past seven months has been a bit difficult, with touring. “Anyway, I make myself a green smoothie in my magic bullet, or whatever you call that [blender] thing! “It’s made from celery and parsley, spinach and kale, and all of that. That’s to do two things: to lower my

blood pressure, which is very high, and to give me a green boost. “My daughter, Claire, lives with me and she has a two-and-a-half-year-old son. So we have a great time running around the house with him. “In the past week, my life has been fairly hectic. I turn on the computer in the morning and then I have a big stack of envelopes and a big stack of CDs and a magic marker and I sign the CDs. “Then I go to the post office and go for a walk. I try to walk every day for an hour, which happens some days but doesn’t happen other days.” Coughlan also works with inner city Youthreach children, giving them

pointers on a singing career, and usually sings for them. The day before The Gazette spoke to her, she drove to Galway and saw her father and her sister. She added: “Then I got up early this morning and went to Galway Bay FM and had my hair done in Galway, and had a lovely lunch there in a place called Kai, the Maori name for food. “A New Zealand couple own it, and I always go there. I get coffee from Urban Grind. I’m really into good coffee, so I normally have to go in search for it. “Now I’m on the road to Roscommon and have a gig at 8pm, I probably won’t get anything else to eat. I might

have a protein bar – I’m trying to lose weight. “After the gig, I go to bed, get up and will do an hour’s walk in the morning, and then I drive to Ballina for a gig.” Coughlan is a great reader but also has a love for Netflix. Her favourite shows include House of Cards and Orange is the New Black. After a long day, she needs no help in getting to sleep, and is out like a light right away. “I’m usually knackered by the time bed beckons,” she said. Mary Coughlan plays the Abbey Tavern in Howth on June 20, before continuing her tour in Cork and Kerry.

CITY Hall is running an exhibition called The Story of the Capital, which tells the tale of Dublin through the centuries up to today’s cosmopolitan city. Citizens and visitors interested in how the city has grown up over the years can get a glimpse at Dublin past and present in the grand surroundings of Dublin Castle, the former administrative centre of British rule in Ireland. The exhibition runs from Monday to Saturday and from 10am until 5.15pm, with last admission at 3.45pm. Admission fees for the Story of the Capital exhibition are €4 per adults, or €3.60 if booked online at www.topattractionsireland.com, €2 for senior citizens, students and the unwaged, €1.50 for children, and there are also group and family rates available. City Hall is one of Dublin’s great architectural gems. The rotunda, with its 12 columns and fine statues, is host to murals and mosaics, set under one of the finest and most ornate domes in the city.

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diary

Rolling out a unique new attraction EUROPE’S largest wooden rollercoaster is now open to the public at Tayto Park in County Meath. The Cu Chulainn coaster travels up to 100km an hour and is made from 800,000kg of yellow pine wood, more than 100 tonnes of steel, and 700,000 nails and bolts. The rollercoaster reaches the dizzying heights of 32.05m with a stomach churning drop zone of 29m. Over 70 builders and engineers from T he Gravity Group, Ohio, worked on the construction of the Cu Chulainn Coaster since 2014. It is also the first wooden rollercoaster in Europe with an inversion and is also the only one of its kind to be constructed in either Ireland or the UK in the past 20 years. In addition to the r o l l e r c o a s t e r, Tay t o Park has recently seen the arrival of eight extra adrenaline filled attractions, Ireland’s only 5D

cinema and a steam train track as well as a new Dinosaurs Alive attraction. Visit www.taytopark. ie for more information.

prisoner cell block h(igh) INMATES at Mountjoy Prison recently performed an amazing feat of teamwork and ingenuity in an attempt to retrieve a package of drugs which had been thrown over the prison wall. The drugs which were thrown over by a wouldbe deliver y boy, got caught in the net which is in place around the prison wall. Inmates formed a human pyramid to boost one prisoner onto the roof to retrieve the package. T he prison officer on duty had to call for backup to deal with the aspiring gymnasts, so the prisoner was able to retrieve the drugs before reinforcements arrived.

K nowing he would not be able to keep them once prison officers apprehended him, however, he ingested the lot and stayed on the roof for seven hours. Sources have said he was “well under the influence” by the time prison officers managed to get him down. It’s probably safe to say his fellow inmates weren’t too happy about him hogging the stash.

launching 1916 initiative THE public launch of a new citizens’ initiative, called Reclaim the Vision of 1916, took place at Liberty Hall on June 9. The group intends to hold a series of lectures and events during the 1916 centenary and to examine Ireland today compared to those aspirations the men and women of the Rising fought and died for. President of Reclaim the Vision of 1916 artist Robert Ballagh addressed several relatives of the men and wo m e n i nvo l ve d i n the Rising, including James Connolly’s great grandson Jim Connolly Heron. Ballagh said of the 1916 Rising: “The blueprint for that dream was proclaimed in the Proclamation of the Irish Republic, a visionary

Robert Ballagh (left), artist and president of citizens’ initiative Reclaim the Vision of 1916, with James Heron Connolly, great grandson of 1916 leader James Connolly, and artist Jim FitzPatrick

statement that rightly belongs in the pantheon of human achievement.” The events will culminate in a major national parade and pageant in Dublin on April 24 next year, to include Fionnuala Flanagan, Stephen Rea, Sinead O’Connor, Adrian Dunbar and Frances Black who are also patrons of the project.

flower fest set to blossom THE countdown has begun for the Dublin Garden Festival 2015 at Christ Church Cathedral, and this year, celebrity gardener Diarmuid Gavin will deliver a talk with a champagne breakfast. The Dublin Garden

Festival takes place June 19 to 21, when the historic cathedral and its grounds burst into life, adorned with floral displays and summer markets. Award-winning floral artist Christopher White is artistic director of the festival and promises a stunning display of contemporary and traditional floral designs based on a fairy tale theme. There will also be gardening workshops, and talks from former Green Party leader Trevor Sargent, gardening author Helen Dillon and many more. Children can take part in a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, experience a petting zoo and watch craft demonstrations.

For more information on the Dublin Garden Festival programme for 2015, you can go to www.dublingardenfestival.ie.

aussie sorry for Irish rant THE oul Australian sod who remarked on live television that the Irish “can’t grow potatoes” has since apologised for his controversial comments. Grahame Morris, a Conservative commentator and former adviser to the Liberal party, said on Sky News during a debate on marriage equality: “The trigger was a vote in Ireland. Now I love the Irish, the parliament is full of Irishmen but these are

people who can’t grow potatoes, they’ve got a mutant lawn weed as their national symbol and they can’t verbalise the difference between tree and the number three. But, and then all of a sudden, Australia has to follow suit.” His comments soon became a national “hot potato” here, and there swif tly followed an apology in an attempt to butter up the Irish public: “I got myself into a hell of a pickle on this. To everyone there in Ireland, to all those with Irish backgrounds, w h i c h i n cl u d e s m e incidentally, I’m actually very sorry. What I said was tasteless and I copped the whack I deserved.”

18 June 2015 Gazette 15

FEATURE interview: maria walsh on a remarkable 12 months

Rose plucks at some highlights of her year

 Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

THE Rose of Tralee graced the launch of an elegant new bar and grill in the Stillorgan Park Hotel recently. Maria Walsh attended the hugely-successful corporate evening to open the Brass Bar and Grill, which serves food daily from 10.30am to 10pm and has live music on Fridays and Saturdays. As she prepares to hand over her Rose of Tralee crown in August,

Walsh reflected on a year well spent.

Adventure She told The Gazette: “I finish on August 18. My year has been fantastic – it’s been a real adventure and I’ ve travelled extensively throughout Ireland and the world. “I think we need more women in ambassador roles. I work a lot with young people and they always seem to be eager to have the Rose of Tralee to their schools, who-

ever she may be. “I was at an Enterprise Ireland event the other night which was women-only, and everybody there seemed to be extremely ecstatic to have the Rose of Tralee there. “The name of the game for the festival is to bring tourists back to Ireland and there are so many people living in our diaspora. So, the relevance of the rose is still very much there. “Every rose that enters it is there because she

wants to share her story and is really positive. I think it’s a unique festival and I believe there’s nothing else out there in the world like it,” she said. Walsh was born in Boston and raised in Mayo, and if that was not cosmopolitan enough, in the Rose of Tralee contest she represented Philadelphia, where she now lives and works. “I work as a media manager for a fashion brand called Anthropology. I didn’t take a year off from my job; I tried to do both. “It’s been a full-on year as the Rose of Tralee, but it’s been great; you get to meet so many people. Like, today [June 9], I got to meet Senator Zappone in Leinster House, which I think is pretty phenomenal.” Walsh was not in Ireland for the Marriage Equality referendum, but was thrilled to hear from Australia that it had passed. She said: “I was delighted to hear that a huge majority of the country were behind it, and I think from a business angle, it could mean huge revenue for the country.” The Gazette asked Walsh what her plans would be af ter she crow ns her Rose of Tralee successor. “I’m trying to figure out the next steps now,” she said. “Whether I’ll stay here or head back to the States, I’m using the next two and a half months to figure out what else can possibly come from my time here at the festival, and to see if I can marry the two worlds.”

Dublin Rose Roisin Lyons with outgoing Rose of Tralee Maria Walsh at the launch of Brass Bar and Grill in Stillorgan Park hotel

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dublinlife

ESCAPEbusiness THE MAYHEM

ESCAPE THE MAYHEM: dylan reid, star of once

‘Staying energetic is a great way to relax’

 keith bellew

HAVING dazzled audiences on Broadway and the West End for five years, Dylan Reid comes to the Olympia Theatre in July to perform in the award-winning musical, Once. The Gazette spoke with Reid about what he does to escape the mayhem of the high-stress environment of his theatrical career. Relaxation for him does not mean putting his feet up – he prefers

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‘I just love getting on the pitch because, although music has always been my passion, it’s good to get out there and do something different for an hour or two’

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to stay active. An excellent way to get away from it, he says, is writing and recording an album – a task he is currently undertaking. “Writing music is the main thing that would help me relax and help

me get away from everything.” That said, he makes sure to take a break from this every now and then as he finds it helps him to return to his project refreshed and ready to go.

Sport is big in his life. Playing eight-a-side soccer two or three times a week with friends is another activity he enjoys. “I just love getting on the pitch because, although music has always been my passion, it’s good to get out there and do something different for an hour or two and then come back to writing and recording. “I love playing soccer and basketball; I find that relaxing even though I’m still being energetic. I love

Broadway and West End star Dylan Reid appears in Once at The Olympia in July

spending time in the gym and keeping fit. “I used to play with a club and captained the school basketball team as well, but having left school I kind of moved away from it and now I just play it with friends,” he said. Another means of

escape for Reid is cooking: “I don’t mind going outside the box and trying new things, but if I find something and I like it, I keep cooking it.” When he comes across a new dish he just throws it on and hopes for the best. “Sometimes it works; sometimes it

doesn’t.” You can catch previews of Reid performing in Once from July 4, with the show opening on July 14 and running until August 22. For further information on the show, see: www.oncemusical.ie, or www.olympia.ie.

11 June 2015 Gazette 17

food & drink P24

asdfsdaf P27 health P25

OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week



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style P18

Pets

Could you be the ‘Me’ for Marley?

Award-winning Dublin musician Damien Dempsey (right) has joined the campaign for Dublin2020. Picture: Geraldine Woods

2020: Damien Dempsey gets behind dublin’s efforts to be shortlisted

Bid for Capital of Culture  Ian Begley

Dublin is now competing with Galway, Limerick and the South East of Ireland to win The European Capital of Culture competition for 2020. The competition will be hosted by Ireland and Croatia and while 2020 may seem like a long time away, the judging is happening much sooner. By mid-October of this year, a panel of European judges will arrive in Ireland and shortlist their favourites. To make sure Dublin moves forward to the next round in the competition, the team of Dublin2020 needs help to spread the word and get people involved. Ray Yeates, Dublin City arts officer said: ‘The reason we are bidding for

the European Capital of Culture 2020 is to build a new story for Dublin based on shared ideas, inclusion and confidence. “Dublin can be a leading city in Europe, and take advantage of its talented young population, to initiate major progress in communities and neighbourhoods during this bid and beyond. Join in. “If you are part of the city you are part of the bid.” Award-winning Dublin musician Damien Dempsey also joined the campaign for Dublin2020, and has recorded a music video in Dublin locations that are close to his heart. The song, which features lines from WB Yeats’s poem The Death of Cuchulainn, is now available on YouTube.

Speaking to The Gazette, Dempsey said: “I’ve put music to a Yeats’s poem and have travelled to several places around Dublin which are associated with Yeats. “The poem goes back to the time of Cuchulainn and Maeve and links in with the men of 1916. It’s a beautiful poem and I’m very happy to get behind it. “I suppose Dublin should be the centre of culture for 2020 because they reckon we have more writers and poets here per square mile than anywhere else in the world,” he said. The European Capital of Culture is awarded for a period of one calendar year, highlighting the diversity, richness and integration of cultures in Europe and the chosen city.

The European Capital of Culture celebrates what we have in common, growing a sense of belonging in our home, country and continent. To ensure Dublin is shortlisted, the Dublin2020 team is working to spread the word, to get Dubliners involved and to join in the conversation on Twitter, Facebook and in person. The Dublin2020 team want to hear from all age groups and all walks of life to join in the conversation – to discuss their Dublin, their issues and shape the future of the city. This is a chance for the people of Dublin to talk about what it means to be a Dubliner and how, together, Dubliners can shape the city’s future. To find out more visit www.dublin2020.ie.

The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week this week is Marley is a two-year-old female collie. She is a beautiful, big strong girl and has been in a loving home already for two years. She has brains to burn and is very clever when it comes to her training. She loves her commands and agility and would love to have more time doing advanced classes and training. She just adores adult company, having her hair brushed and great walks. Could you be the ‘Me’ for Marley?. If you think you could offer Marley a loving home please contact Dogs Trust on 01-879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.

OUT&ABOUT

ven Sons Wo Weir & 70 fflinks €1 design cu

Weir & Sons Dalvey classic shaving set €208

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18 Gazette 18 June 2015

This show of vintage cars will delight all

Highlights Event highlights of the show include 1,300 classic and vintage cars, trade stands, food and refreshments, children’s entertainment, classical pop music from music group Bee Bop Gold, a “Best in Show” prize-giving ceremony, and more. For full information, see www.irishjagclub. ie. To win one of the two family passes, visit our Facebook page, find this contest post, then Like it and comment below it, telling us what your dream car is. The closing date and time for your entries is 5pm on Wednesday, June 24, so get motoring to let us know about your car! The winners will be announced on our Facebook page.

Oxford shirt €3 3

DU BL I N G a z e t t e Newspapers and our friends at Children’s Medical & Research Foundation, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital have teamed up to give you the perfect Father’s Day gift for the motoring enthusiast in your life. Courtesy of the contest on our Facebook page, we have two family passes to the 2015 Irish Classic and Vintage Motor Show (family ticket for two adults, and two children under 12 years) at the Grounds of Terenure College, Templeogue Road, Dublin 6.

River Island

Win a great prize for Dad on our page

M&S Pure cotton mini-gingh am check short-sleeved shirt €24

motoring enthusiasts

n’s n me a B y a 159 ds R woo lasses € e l t t i L ng or su Aviat

Lit and tlewo cuf ods flink M s g en’s if t set tiepin €15

This one’s for you,

 Clare Devereux

FATHER’S Day is almost here – the day in the year when we pause to acknowledge the contribution that fathers and father figures make to our lives, to celebrate fatherhood and male parenting, and Gazette Style is standing by to lend a helping hand this Sunday, June 21. We’ve gone out of our way to select gifts for all types of dads: from sporty to traditional, and not forgetting

those who are new to the role. Here’s our secret – buying presents is easy once you know what someone likes! So, take a look at your dad’s wardrobe – does he need new socks? Are his shirts threadbare? Do his sweaters need a revamp? Are his ties sad and weary? If the answer is no, move on to accessories: what about cufflinks or a watch, or a cool set of shades to set him apart from the rest? Still drawing a blank? Hit

the kitchen. Does your dad like juicing? Is he a wannabe barista? The bathroom shelf may give you a few hints too. Does your dad have a favourite after-shave? A moisturiser he uses regularly? Is his razor crying out for change? Let’s not forget sporty dad – from golf to football, there’s plenty to choose from to show dad he is the champion! So, this Father’s Day, you’ve no excuse – now get on out there, and choose something that tells your dad he’s special ...

Weir & Sons Leather compact wallet €99

18 June 2015 Gazette 19

0 alvey ns D flinks €12 o S f & u c r Wei lty pearl a Admir

ns & So 99 Weir watch €1 g in Ber

Brown Thomas Ga

River Island Flap over Messenger Bag €45

ggia espresso mac

hine €325

Riv er I

Littlewoods Armani Code 75ml €79

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Weir & Sons Bering watch €229

Littlewoods Fossil wallet and cardholder set €41

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STYLE

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20 Gazette 18 June 2015

Bride Groom

Head to Donabate for wedding activities you’ll really treasure RECENTLY engaged? Then this event might be something just for you ... Follow your heart and enter the Wedding Treasure Hunt on July 5 at The Waterside House Hotel in Donabate. Synonymous with fabulous weddings right on the beach, the hotel opened free online registrations for a unique wedding event. Prizes to be won include a €1,500 wedding voucher and many extras. Couples taking part in the treasure hunt around the hotel grounds and Donabate beach will solve various clues and compete in weddingoriented games with each other. Refreshments and canapes will be served throughout the day, and it promises to be a fun-packed day – a wedding showcase with a difference. The treasure hunt will be followed by a large wedding open day, where couples have the opportunity

l lo o k ing at m any ke y as pects of marriag e l

Let our supplement support the big day  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

The Waterside House Hotel, Donabate

to meet wedding experts and exhibitors face to face, get invaluable advice and find out what’s hot and new as they plan their wedding. As one of the region’s largest wedding events, the open day is happening in the Waterside House Hotel on July 5 from 2pm to 6pm It’s going to be a day packed with wedding expertise and excellence. To register for the Wedding Treasure Hunt, see http://www. watersidehousehotel.ie/weddings/ wedding-treasure-hunt/, or call 01 843 6153 for further information.

“THE world will always welcome lovers, as time goes by”, so the song goes, and couples in love will always want to marry. Now that summer is here and the sky is blue (sometimes) and flowers are blooming, many couples will opt to tie the knot over the coming months. If you are one half of an engaged couple, planning to exchange vows soon, our wedding supplement has some great ideas about how to make your big day the biggest and best one of your life. --------------------------

‘Our wedding supplement has lots of ideas to help make your big day truly unforgettable’ --------------------------

Inside the supplement are tips and ideas around essentials such as how to put your unique stamp on your nuptials by choosing a bespoke wedding off the beaten track. There is also a feature showing a range of some of the most unusual wedding venues all across Ireland. Nor have we forgotten how important it is to get in good shape for your Big Day, either. Advice on the most effective workouts and good nutrition are here at your disposal. There is even a lighter piece, offering ideas on how to inject a bit of

Our supplement has some great ideas about how to make the big day unforgettable

fun into proceedings on the day, by incorporating something like an adventurous treasure hunt. W hatever kind of wedding you fancy,

or even if you are still unsure of what you want your wedding day to be like, The Gazette’s Wedding Supplement offers soon-to-be newly-weds ideas that point you in

the right direction. We have included weddings which suit all tastes and inclinations, mirroring Ireland’s new, improved and more inclusive marriage laws.

18 June 2015 Gazette 21

Gazette

l w h y n ot c h o o s e fr o m a wi d e r ange o f ve nue s? l

Be creative – pick an unusual setting  ian begley

IF YOU’RE on the hunt for an alternative venue for your wedding and are hoping to do something a little different for your big day, then you will be happy to know that Ireland has a huge range of unconventional wedding venues on offer. From castles, barns, theatres, sports stadiums, beaches and the zoo, you will certainly be spoiled for choice if you want an unusual or eccentric wedding

venue. If you’re thinking of a very intimate wedding in Ireland with just your nearest and dearest, then Fanningstown Castle might be the perfect choice. Set in the countryside of Limerick, this grand castle has been converted into an atmospheric private house that is suitable for a small group seeking escape from the mayhem. If your heart is set on a Dublin city wedding, but you’re looking for

that very special space to celebrate, then Smock Alley Theatre might be just the ticket. With exposed brick walls, ornate plaster work ceiling and stained glass windows, this venue is certainly a sight to behold. Its oak benches and tables offer options for the fashionable long dining experience and the large space is very versatile for a ceremony or reception. Another great alternative venue is at Mount

Druid in Westmeath. The building and its surrounds comprise a converted barn, an unconsecrated tin chapel, 20 traditional Mongolian yurts, a charming gate lodge, an 1820s Georgian house, a summer house and three lakes. Why not choose to say “I do” at the zoo? Dublin Zoo is a unique alternative to the traditional wedding venue and provides a magical backdrop for your special day. Haughton House, a

Wedding favours needn’t cost the earth WEDDING favours provide the couple with an excellent way of showing their appreciation to their guests for helping to celebrate their big day. When choosing the type of favour you would like to present to your guests, budget must be considered. One way to cut costs but still give your wedding a personal touch is to provide homemade wedding favours. Save

Confectionery is the old standard, but rather than buying countless boxes of luxur y chocolates, or sugared almonds, baking your own cookies, cupcakes etc will enable you to save money and give you the opportunity of personalising them with your wedding’s theme.

The Smock Alley Theatre has exposed brick walls, ornate plasterwork ceiling and stained glass windows and is very versatile for a ceremony or reception

restored historical building with magnificent views of the zoo, is available seven days a week for all types of wedding ceremonies, including civil ceremonies, civil partnerships and blessings.

With weddings at Croke Park, GAA fans can marry their love of the game with the love of their life. Whether you are interested in a large, traditional reception, a small, intimate celebration or something in

between, they can offer you the perfect alternative venue. For further information on these alternative wedding venues, see w w w.alternativewedd i n g s . i e , a n d w w w. hitched.ie.

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Bride Groom

l looki ng yo u r b e st l

Getting in shape for your special day Your wedding is an event to be remembered for the rest of your which will be chronicled with an array of photographs and possibly on film. For this reason among others you will want to look your best. Whether your looking to drop a few pounds, tighten up your muscles or completely overhaul your physique, Educogym, Dundrum can get you there. The Educogym system is based on a university validated study which proves that a clear goal combined with resistance based exercise and low glycemic nutrition caused

--------------------------

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Educogym works with you to draw out your ideal figure or physiqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; --------------------------

a person to shape up faster than any other system in the world. On average, the participants lost 7.5 lbs of fat, and gained an average 3 lbs of metabolism boosting muscle in just 12 days all with just 20 minutes of exercise per day. Educogym is designed to replicate

these incredible results, with each aspect of the programme finely tuned to ensure success. Educogym consultants work with you to help you understand your goals and then devise a programme to make sure you achieve them. Educogym specialises in low-glycemic nutrition plans designed to detox your body from sugar to lower body fat and get in your best-ever shape. T he word educo means to lead or draw out from within. Educogym works with you to draw out your ideal figure or physique using their carefully crafted

The Educogym system combines resistance based exercise and low-glycemic nutrition

system. The big difference between the Educo gym resistance training and traditional aerobic exercise such as jog-

ging is that by increasing lean muscle tissue you will increase your metabolism to burn fat and have a leaner and firmer body.

All programmes include intensive 20minute training sessions, regular consultations, nutritional programmes with expert

advice and goal setting to help you look your best on your big day. For more information, visit www.educogym.com/Dundrum

18 June 2015 Gazette 23

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24 Gazette 18 June 2015

OUT&ABOUT

FOOD&DRINK

BITESIZEDNEWS

The contribution of Irish – and Scottish – workers in the Caribbean inspired The Redleg Rebellion, above

A cocktail inspired by sunburnt Irish legs WITH the sun finally spotted in our skies, now’s the time to make a relaxing cocktail – The Redleg Rebellion. “Redlegs” was the name given to Irish and Scottish workers in the Caribbean in the 17th and 18th centuries (you can guess why), who were forcibly transported by Oliver Cromwell consequent to his subjugation of Ireland. This drink was created as a “tip of the hat” to the thousands of Irish who worked the sugar plantations of the Caribbean, and without whose cheap labour the popularity of rum may never have spread throughout the world.

Ingredients 30ml Teeling Small Batch 20ml Clement Creole Shrub 10ml Taylors Velvet Falernum 20ml Lime Juice 20ml Pineapple Syrup Preparation Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker and shake vigourously for 10-15 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass/Julep cup filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a pineapple slice, mint sprig and cherry.

Give your patio power a boost with a canopy ’TIS the season for barbecues, picnics and other modes of al fresco dining. But sometimes the sun is beaming – and sometimes it disappears for days. Nevertheless, hope springs eternal and it’s important when it comes to the weather in Ireland to be like a Girl Guide – prepared for anything! So, a patio with canopy is the salvation for barbie-holics and, if you haven’t already got one, then you should. Whether it’s the outdoor party look you want or a more family-friendly option that’s safe for children, Tobermore can help. Theresa Kiely, manager at Tobermore’s Dublin Paving and Walling Centre, says: “Tobermore’s patio products are long-lasting, cost-effective and maintenance and cleaning is minimal, so that’s one less chore for you to worry about.” If you need patio inspiration, call the company at 01 843 7440, email sales@tobermore.ie, or see www.tobermore.ie.

Soder + Ko

Fusion restaurant

South Great Georges St The interesting fusion

WITH its high ceilings, spacious sleek decor and an ultra-hip menu inspired by a fusion of Scandinavian and Asian cuisine, Soder + Ko on South Great George’s street is already proving to be a popular addition to Dublin’s ever growing list of trendy chowdown joints. Having recently gotten our hands on a voucher offering an express lunch bento box and a drink for a special fixed price, Picky and partner decided to try it out. The vibe was immediately relaxed and elegant when we arrived. We ordered two nonalcoholic cocktails, made in-house. My partner’s was strawberry and orange juice-based. Of course I had to sample it, and I found it very refreshing. I went for a cucumber and chestnut syrup cocktail. Unfortunately, it was sickly sweet and far too sugary for me.

of Scandinavian and Asian cuisine at Soder + Ko is matched by its creative interior space. Picture: James Martin

The Picky Eater The express lunch menu offers four different bentos, with the choice of a meat, fish, vegetable or special of the day. We both chose the meat bento, which offered miso soup, chicken dumplings, fillet steak with sticky rice and a side of charred bok choi. --------------------------

‘For a lunch deal which ranges from €9-€12, the value for money is decent. I didn’t leave stuffed, but I was satisfied’ --------------------------

When the food arrived, we discovered that two of the side dishes had been switched. Instead of bok choi, we got stewed aubergine, and in place of the chicken dumplings, there was a

prawn variety instead. I checked with our server and he timidly informed us that the chefs were only serving this selection now. I was unimpressed with the last-minute switcheroo without our knowledge, but the assortment was indeed tasty. The star of the show was the small, tender cut of fillet beef which came with a poached egg yolk on top. For a lunch deal which ranges from €9-€12, the value for money is decent enough. I didn’t leave stuffed, but I was satisfied. Some teething problems were apparent, from our slightly confused waiter who was in the midst of his first day to my overly sugary beverage. However, I feel that given the opportunity, Soder + Ko could prove to be a deserving addition to the growing multicultural range of restaurants in the city.

Despite being sent on the day what the kitchen wanted to cook rather than the order placed, the food was great. Pictures: The Picky Eater

Conclusion DESPITE some teething problems when Picky and partner visited, Soder + Ko (at 64 South Great George’s Street, Dublin) has the potential to be a great addition to the city’s foodscape. Reasonably priced, its dishes proved to be tasty.

18 June 2015 Gazette 25

Gazette

HEALTH

Mark Joyce and Ronnie Carroll have teamed up with celebrity Ray Shah

Franchise deal expands brand Bon Sheekey demonstrating the V-Sit

calisthenics: using bodyweight as resistance

All you need is your own body to get fit  Suzanne Sheehy

Life is movement – movement is life. This is the mantra of Bon Sheekey, who heads up an eponymous fitness company operating out of TCD’s sport centre. And when it comes to training, your own bodyweight can help you out on the way to fitness, according to the same man. Sheekey tells Gazette Health that he takes a novel approach to the pursuit of health, fitness and longevity. He has a 16-year history in gymnastics, breakdance, weight training and movement which prompted him to notice the many positive health benefits to be gained from using bodyweight, including improved muscle strength and function, lower body fat, greater range of motion and flexibility in joints along with

freedom of expression and an improved sense of wellbeing. Sheekey talked to us about this re-emerging form of training, calisthenics, which is any training where the bodyweight is used as resistance. This can range from walking or crawling to gymnastics, mechanics of martial arts, types of dance and even yoga postures. Principal beginner exercises involve the pullup, handstand and press up. More advanced versions are the handstand press up, plyometric (jump training) press up, press up claps to name but a few. The real fun comes when you begin to learn the variations then put them all together into calisthenic sequences or routines. Because there is no end to possible move-

ments, calisthenics can be one of the freest and most creative forms of expression. It improves overall strength, shape, coordination, balance and flexibility. Anybody of any age from any walk of life can and should engage in it, according to Sheekey. Both weight training and calisthenics have their place depending on individual goals, he maintains, but where the latter really kicks ass is in its ability to create harmony between different areas of the body allowing it to work in its preferred muscular groups. This reduces chance of injury and helps practitioners stay injury free. Another plus is that all you need is your body, some will power and a little space. There is absolutely no need to spend vast sums on equipment and gym membership to begin

training, he says. Sheekey aims for an optimal blend of resistance training and calisthenics in order to reap the benefits of both. You can become strong and powerful in the weights room and then transform this into more agility and better balance with calisthenics. He finds both modes complement each other and they would be his go-to training systems for programme design for himself and many of his clients. The results speak for themselves, Sheekey maintains. Interested? Then contact bonsheekeyfitness@gmail. com.

FITNESS entrepreneurs Ronnie Carroll and Mark Joyce have agreed a franchise deal with DJ and ex Big Brother celebrity Ray Shah to expand his hugely successful Bodyfirst Nutrition brand. The first of the franchise outlets opened in the village of Malahide recently with more planned in the near future. Bodyfirst Nutrition outlets at the Wooden Bridge Clontarf and in The Mall in Malahide Village are open from Monday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm and on Sunday from 12pm to 5pm. Fitness enthusiast Shah launched the first Bodyfirst Nutrition in Clontarf in 2013 having developed a passion for fitness and nutrition during his time in the public eye. His vision was to create a one-stop-shop for sports supplements, vitamins and health foods. Nowadays, most people shop online for popular sports and fitness products. Bodyfirst Nutrition is one of the first walk-in stores where you can buy

all your monthly supply of nuts, seeds, gluten free foods and teas, as well as protein powders, recovery shakes and energy gels under one roof. Carroll said: “Ray has created a fantastic brand and we’ve nothing but admiration for what he has done. Rather than try to reinvent the wheel out here we decided to approach him with a view to establishing a franchise agreement where we could all work together to expand this superb brand.” Shah said: “After two years of growing the brand in Clontarf I was looking to take it further and was then approached by Ronnie and Mark. The idea of developing it as a franchise and engaging with the boys on both an expertise and entrepreneurial level really appealed to me and was an obvious solution to my expansion plans.” Some well-known faces which have been visible in Bodyfirst Nutrition include Leinster/Irish rugby player Cian Healy and his girlfriend, former Miss Ireland Holly Carpenter.

Wheels in motion for Aquabike THE sun has put his hat on, hip hip hip hooray – time to get outdoors and be more active. Summer is the perfect time to challenge yourself so why not sign up to an multisport event and have fun as you get fit(ter)? June 14 was the day that Ireland’s newest multisport event pedalled off. The Aquabike was hosted by Fingal Triathlon club which is based in Skerries north County Dublin. Aquabike is an endurance sport composed of swimming and cycling

stages. GazetteHealth found it great to see the big numbers signed up to this event out pedalling hard on the course. Aquabike is ideal for those unable to run through injury or those who simply dislike running. Long may this event take place. Haven’t invested in a bike just yet? Then consider doing an aquathlon. Which is a two-stage race involving swimming followed by running. If you’re interested in taking part in a triathlon or multisport event log

onto www.triathlonireland.com. You’re bound to find something to suit you in their 2015 race calendar. It could be a triathlon, duathlon, adventure racing – entirely up to you. And for beginners, you will find training and nutrition advice to set you off on the right foot into the summer months.

26 BLANCH GAZETTE 18 June 2015

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28 Gazette 18 June 2015

SPORT

FastSport

Minister Paschal Donohoe and Dublin Mayor Christy Burke launching the Great Dublin Bike Ride in Smithfield Square . Picture: Rob Mohan/Sportsfile

Dublin to host ‘Gran Fondo’ cycling event IRISH CYCLING has a new event to look forward to, with the Great Dublin Bike Ride set to take off from Smithfield Square on Sunday, September 13. The event will feature two routes – 60km and 100km – each starting and finishing in in Smithfield, and taking in scenic routes around Dublin city, county and further afield. The 100km route will pass through Malahide and Ashbourne in county Meath as well as some winding rural roads, while the shorter outing takes in Blanchardstown, Malahide and Swords. The event will follow the cyclosportive (or Gran Fondo) model that’s become extremely popular in modern day cycling, with the aim of falling half way between a competitive race and a challenging stage-based distance event. The format will welcome amateur and inexperienced cyclists, who’ll start alongside their more experienced counterparts. The Great Ireland Bike Ride is backed by numerous major sporting institutions, including the Irish Sports Council, Cycling Ireland, the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, Dublin City Council and Healthy Ireland, and was launched by Minister Paschal Donohoe and Dublin Mayor Christy Burke in an event in Smithfield Square on Monday, May 8. Speaking at the launch, John Treacy, chief executive of the Irish Sports Council, said: “We are thrilled to be launching the Great Dublin Bike Ride. I have participated in similar events internationally and saw firsthand how successful they can be in increasing participation across all ages and all abilities. “I really believe this is a great event to keep everyone active over the summer months and would encourage everyone, whether you are beginner or advanced cyclist to sign up and get involved.” Training plans, registration – currently €40 for the longer event, and €25 for the shorter – and route maps as well as further information can be found on the website, www.greatdublinbikeride. ie.

McLaughlin’s tough trail to Croker glory Round Tower’s hurling captain Brian McLaughlin tells JAMES HENDICOTT of his battle back from serious injury, and unlikely route to Croke Park glory with Fermanagh

BRIAN McLaughlin starred in Fermanagh’s Lory Meagher Cup win on Saturday, June 6, scoring 0-5 from full forward as the Ernesiders claimed the title they missed out on in a tight finale a year ago. Fermanagh finished the game with just 12 men on the pitch, but won by a fairly comfortable score of 3-16 to 1-17. It’s been a rough ride for the Round Tower captain, who sat out an entire season back in 2013 after serious back and hip injuries picked up in a car accident. His comeback, declaration for Fermanagh – a side that’s own road to the final has been afflicted with tragedy and subsequent national title is perhaps the story of this season’s cup. “I came back from the injury for Round Tower in 2014 and we had a great season,” McLaughlin recalls.

“We won the Division 4 title, and the physios there were great in getting me back to fitness. “The idea of declaring for Fermanagh came up towards the end of the season. I mentioned it to my dad – both he and my uncle used to play for the county side – and he was very keen on it. I qualify through the so called ‘mother rule’ for minor counties, and while I was a little reluctant at first because of the extra games, it was definitely the right call.” Sports Med Ireland played a major role for McLaughlin, with the high-end new training facilities in Ballymount helping further in pushing his fitness and injury progression from September last year. McLaughlin spent four days a week in the facility, letting the experts nurse him back to his pre-accident con-

dition and perfect the strength and conditioning he needed to move forward. By November, he was ready to talk to Fermanagh manager Shane D u f f y, w h o s e e m e d enthusiastic about McLaughlin’s involvement. The for ward’s dad and uncle smoothed the process through their county links, and McLaughlin’s inkling edged towards reality. A journey down to Fermanagh training with Shane Mulholland back in November cemented McLaughlin’s decision, and was later to form the heart of McLaughlin’s perceptions of the cup win, and much of the motivation he’d need. “Shane drove me to Fermanagh’s centre of excellence, which is on the side of a mountain and difficult to find,” he recalls. “He talked

Brian McLaughlin lifts the Lory Meagher Cup ,after Fermanagh defeated Sligo at Croke Park on Saturday, June 6.

about how much the Lory Meagher Cup meant to the side, and I could feel the passion.” Mulholland died in a tragic car accident back in February, leaving behind his wife and three-month-old daughter. While Fer-

green to a quick fire lead that was never to be overturned. Duffy later described the win as Fermanagh’s Holy Grail. “We never lost our sense of calm and control, even when the side were down to 12 players

--------------------------------------------------------

‘I didn’t realise how much it meant to me until the final whistle, when the emotion just came pouring out’ Brian McLaughlin

--------------------------------------------------------

managh suffered a poor league campaign, finishing bottom of Division 3 after losing all five games, winning Lory Meagher became the all-encompassing aim for the season, and something to give in Mulholland’s honour. The Fermanagh shirts for the Croke Park encounter bore the oneoff inscription Uallach, Irish for Mulholland, meaning proud. Despite being hit with three red cards in the second half, Fermanagh looked in control from the moment they started striking first half goals, despite finding themselves 0-9 to 0-2 down with 20 minutes on the clock. Three goals in the final 15 first half minutes saw the boys in

at the end,” McLaughlin explains. “Round Tower have made things very easy for me, and playing the game in front of my mum, dad, brother, girlfriend and 94-year-old grandfather at Croke Park was very special. “I know I played well, because my grandfather would have called me on it if I hadn’t. It felt like the win was meant to be. “I’m not sure I personally realised how much it meant until the emotion came out at the final whistle. It was for Shane.” Fermanagh followed their Croker victory with a win against Louth, securing a place in next year’s Nicky Rackard Cup, where they’ll face Tyrone, Monaghan and Donegal.

18 June 2015 Gazette 29

Gazette

FastSport HOCKEY IRELAND ANNOUNCE WORLD LEAGUE SQUAD DUBLIN players feature heavily in the Ireland Hockey squad announced by coach Craig Fulton this week, which will travel to Antwerp, Belgium to compete in World League 3. Ireland have been drawn in Group B, and will take on China, hosts Belgium, Malaysia and Great

Luke McGrath spars on his way to a 56kg junior male gold medal

Valley prove unstoppable in junior worlds  James Hendicott

TOP CLASS Swords taekwondo club Rivervalley put in a stunning performance at the World Junior Championships in Lido de Jesolo, Italy, recently. The 11 junior athletes sent over as part of a 39-person Irish team were so spectacular that had they competed as a nation rather than a club they’d have finished sixth on the medal table, ahead of sizeable competitors like the USA, Argentina and Russia. All in, the championships featured more than 1,000 competitors from 52 different countries. The Irish team are coached by Stephen Cooley, a VI degree and former international fighter who started Rivervalley back in 1992. He takes young fighters, often just six years old, with the philosophy of “treat them like world champions from the moment they walk in the door. “Most coaches take

talented kids at the age of 12 or 13,” Cooley told GazetteSport. “We start them off at six, and put them in a competitive atmosphere. The kids believe in themselves, and make a decision at the age of 12 or 13 on how seriously they’re going to take it. They can become ordinary black belts, or aim for the national team.” All 11 Rivervalley athletes who went to Italy medalled, but perhaps the crowning glory was in the men’s 56kg individual sparring, in which club teammates Luke McGrath and Rostik Ivanchuk fought each other in the final. Both came through a series of tough fights, with McGrath edging through in the finale. Cooley recalls his early days as “a very unassuming kid who at first didn’t really want to spar. He’s a natural, though, and it didn’t take him long to take things really seriously”. Another individual success came for Killester’s Ellen Ince, who’s trained

individually with Cooley for a couple of years. Ince’s individual sparring title at 55kg weight was her second successive world title, wins that bracket a European win, too. Maeve Magee also won a special technique silver, while Rivervalley’s team competitors scored a full set of gold, silver and bronze medals. In large part due to Rivervalley’s success, the Irish team grabbed sixth place overall. All the medals won over in Italy come off the back of the club’s professional approach. “We have a big team,” Cooley says. “You hear about other sports doing six weeks of conditioning before the training starts. We do a year of strength and conditioning. “We study body movement and train on techniques like long jump and high jump, too. Some of our kids wear heart monitors and train eight days a week. They’ve earned the results, and they got them.”

Britain. The Green Machine will open against the old enemy on Tuesday, June 23. The 18 man squad features Peter Caruth and David Fitzgerald (Monkstown), Mitch Darling (Three Rock) and Kirk Shimmins (UCD) alongside several players who ply their trade in the competitive Belgian league. Ireland warmed up by playing Belgium twice in recent warm up matches, losing 3-2 and 4-2, but Fulton remains positive, saying “we will need to add more detail to our performances in critical phases to get results, which we believe we can do”

Gazette

30 LUCAN gazette 18 June 2015

SPORT

fastSport

intra-league soccer: dubs in rare kennedy cup loss

Outstanding debut season for Dublin biker WICKLOW is well-known in the mountain biking world as a fantastic spot for both training and racing, and has increasingly attracted highprofile events pushed by the likes of extreme sports nuts Red Bull. Despite the resources on our doorstep, however, Ireland hasn’t exactly taken the sport by storm, until recently. Greg Callaghan - a 23-year-old rider from Rathfarnham – has only been a professional since the start of the year, yet the pre-season outsider currently sits an astonishing second in the Enduro World Mountain Biking series. Callaghan took full advantage of the series’ first ever visit to Ireland in late May, taking top spot in the Wicklow race to mark the first time an Irishman has ever won a world-level event. He won the seven-stage contest by just 16 seconds. Enduro is a form of mountain biking that prioritises downhill sections, but also features flat and uphill segments to test all-round skill, and is raced across multiple stages. The series is currently three races old, and Callaghan’s third place in Scotland following the Wicklow event has kept him within a hair’s breadth of New Zealand’s Justin Leov, the early leader. The first race, held in New Zealand, saw Callaghan impress with a debut 11th place that has been entirely eclipsed by the successes that have followed. Callaghan was understandably elated by the results, admitting he started the season hoping to clock a top 10 finish overall, and perhaps a podium in one of the eight races. Future races on the series will take Callaghan to France, Spain, Canada and the USA before the series comes to its conclusion in Italy. The fourth round gets under way on July 18 in Samoens, near Chamonix in the French Alps. Callaghan graduated to professional racing from the local Gravity Enduro contest, which takes in a number of Wicklow routes as well as routes in Ticknock (South Dublin) and Ballyhoura (Limerick), with the aim of uncovering Ireland’s best all-round rider. Before becoming a pro, he spent his days on a bike as a Dublin courier.

The NDSL side that traveled to Limerick to contest the Kennedy Cup

Kerry edge out DDSL in Limerick  nathan kelly sport@dublingazette.com

FOR the first time since 2004, Dublin teams were left empty handed at the annual Kennedy Cup competition which was held in Limerick last week. H a v i n g wo n t h e Kennedy Cup, the blueribbon competition of the weekend, ten of the last eleven years, the DDSL fell at the final hurdle this year, losing 1-0 to Kerry in the final. The other two Dublin sides at the competition, the NDSL and SDFL, were also unsuc-

cessful as the Cup, Shield, Bowl and Trophy competitions were all won by leagues from around the country. The beaten finalists began the competition in Group 2, and set off to a blistering start, beating Longford 13-0, but followed it up with two 1-1 draws against North Tipperary and Kilkenny. They still managed to just about secure their place in the quarter-final of the Cup competition on goal difference. They played out another 1-1 draw in that quarter-final against the Midlands but won the

Top GIrls Lucan United out to add to successful girls team THE GIRLS section at Lucan United FC are

looking to add to their successful girls sides across age groups from 5 to 16. Their academy and seven underage teams benefit from top facilities and UEFA A and B licensed coaches, and will host the open day at their Airlie Heights ground on Sunday, July 5. Interest players should get parental permission before emailing lucanunitedgirls@ gmail.com with their name, date of birth and a contact phone number.

penalty shootout 4-2. Meanwhile, the NDSL started the weekend in Group 1, alongside South Tipperar y, Athlone, and the Sligo/Leitrim league. The promising North Dublin group won all three of their group games scoring 11 goals and conceding just one in those fixtures. That placed them in the Cup quarter-final where they met Kildare and eventually advanced via a 4-3 win on penalties after a scoreless draw after extra-time. Up next was a semi-final Dublin derby against

the DDSL which ended the North Dubliners chance of success, with their city rivals running out 2-0 winners. To finish off their weekend, the NDSL, who last won the Kennedy Cup in 2011, played the Limerick Desmond league in a 3rd/4th place playoff which they won 4-1. In the final of the Cup, a Dylan Murphy strike for Kerry separated the sides in a close fought game in which the DDSL had more of the chances. The (SDFL) was the other Dublin side at the competition. They even-

tually finished 19th in the competition of 32 teams. They finished third in Group 8 despite starting the competition with a 2-1 win over Carlow; they followed that result up with a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Wexford and a 2-0 loss against the Midlands. The South Dubliners went on to play West Cork in the Shield quarter-final which they won 4-1 on penalties after a scoreless draw. They then lost 3-2 to Mayo in the semi-final before beating Waterford 3-0 in the 19th/20th place playoff.

18 June 2015 LUCAN gazette 31

Gazette

the long and winding road

Fermanagh club’s bold fundraiser to tour country

Club Noticeboard round tower clondalkin

BIKE 1630 - a fundraising iniative from

Fermanagh GAA club Belnaleck - will see cyclists stop off at all 1630 GAA clubs in Ireland to raise money for a new pitch. Dublin clubs St Vincent’s, Ballyboden St. Endas and Thomas Davis are among those who have already signed up to hosting the cycle this weekend, which offers a top prize of a training weekend for 30 players at the popular 5-star Lock Erne Resort.

A DRAW for the senior hurlers v St

deceased members will take place

Oliver Plunketts on Saturday was

Thursday, July 2 in the club rooms

enough to see them through to the

at 8.30pm. People are asked to be

quarter finals of Senior B Champi-

seated by 7.45pm.

onship. The Juniors were narrowly beaten by Ballyboden St Endas. Keep an eye on club website this

sic. It will take place on Friday, July

week for details of Round Tower’s

10 at Newlands Golf Club. Details

participation in Clondalkin Festival

are available from any Member of

2015. Plenty of fun events for young

the Executive.

and old are being lined up by club.

football: tower’s upset the league hierarchy

Teebox sponsorship is available for Round Tower GAA Club Golf Clas-

Round Tower’s lotto draw 8th

June. Numbers drawn 1,11,13,22

at the Nursery every Saturda y

bonus ball 18. There were no win-

morning 10am - 11.30am. Summer

ners of the €7,800 jackpot. The 3 x

camps will take place from July 6-10

€100 winners were ‘All the Gang’,

(the Kelloggs Cúl Camp) and July 13

Luke Garrigan and Sandra Pet-

- 17 (the Round Tower Camp’s). Fur-

tigrew. Please play the club lotto

ther details are available from the

online at www.roundtower.ie and

club website.

support this very important club

The 37th annual club Mass for

fundraiser.

st pat’s palmerstown CLUB fundraising race night is on in the

The U-8 played Cuala and came from

Palmerstown House on Friday, June 19

behind to earn a super draw, well done

at 8pm. Please come out and support

to all the players, they are improving

the club.

very well.

Thanks to all who turned up on Saturday for our club clean up day.

Round Tower and Oliver Plunkett’s go head to head in the Dublin Senior Hurling Championship. Picture: Mick McGlynn

Tower draw secures Championship progress senior hurling Round Tower 1-12 Oliver Plunkett’s 1-12  sport@dublingazette.com

ROUND TOWER senior hurlers are through to the quarter-final of the Dublin Senior Hurling Championship for the first time. It follows an excellent see-saw tie at Monastery Road that had both sets of supporters living on their nerves. The visitors missed a vital, straightforward free from 40 metres with the final strike of the game. Up to the final ten minutes, Towers had led throughout. Plunkett’s

pressure in the second half finally told when a powerful run through the middle allowed their number 13 to cut in from the left to strike beyond Tower keeper Fergal McDonagh with just over ten minutes remaining. This left it at 1-8 apiece. Galvanised by the goal, Plunkett’s edged a point clear with ten minutes remaining, but Tower showed excellent resilience and determination. They struck two wides before substitute Aaron Wynne pressured a Plunkett defender carrying from defence, leading to penalisation for charging

and Eoin Ryan struck the free. Eoin Walsh drove from half back into 21. Moran caught high before pointing off his left from a tight angle. But Plunketts struck two in quick succession to equalise. It looked like Moran could have won it when he struck long-range under pressure from the right sideline, but the subsequent puck-out led to a Plunkett’s free from range that was pointed. In injury time Plunkett’s came again to win the free on the 40 but surprisingly it drifted to the left of McDonagh’s post.

The visitors standing in the second tier was evident in that they played most of the game with 14, following a red card within the opening quarter. This helped Tower gain control, leading 1-6 v 0-5 at the break. Paidi Stapleton netted the Tower goal when he capitalised on a mistake by the visiting keeper to bat to the net. Conan O’Broin was strong in the middle and scored an excellent point from range. Eoin Ryan struck two frees and Jack Whelan – with a superb effort on the run – Finn and Stapleton were further point scorers.

The nursery held a very successful fun session on Monday, over 60 kids

The lotto numbers for this week

took part in some fun games with their

were 9, 10, 22 and 29. There was no win-

friends and mentors. At the end of the

ner so next week’s lotto is €1,600.

session each player was presented

The U-11 camogie team had a great

with a medal to mark their partici-

evenly matched game on Sunday

pation in Gaelic games with St Pats.

against Commercials. They were

Thanks to everyone involved.

ahead for most of the game, but a

Congratulations to Aine Measy,

late score saw them lose. Still a bril-

Aoife Gilbert, Nicole Pinvaseick and

liant performance by all the girls, well

Emily Brophy, all from St Brigid’s GNS

done.

and St Pats members who were picked

The U-12 Camogie match on Sat-

to play for the Dublin camogie side in

urday was cancelled as a mark of

Belfast on Friday, travelling with men-

respect to the Harris family.

tor and Pat’s member Denise Mullins.

The U-14 Footballers had a great

The Dublin team had a brilliant win of

home win against St Finians, our

2-2 to 0-0 and were jubilant on their

team showed some amazing skills and

return.

exceptional team spirit to come out on top 8.25 to 4.05. Well done to the lads.

Congrats to Sean Evers (U-13) and Tomas O Mahony who won their hurling

The U-12 hurlers gave a great effort

final in Croke Park for Gaelscoil Naomh

Saturday afternoon away v Cuala,

Padraig, great result and one the lads

coming up just short of a win. It was

will remember for a long time.

a super performance from Jack

Camogie skills session will continue

Kennedy, Adam Murphy, John Walsh

throughout out the summer from 6-7

and Adam Devitt.

every Friday night.

lucan sarsfields BOOKINGS are now open for our sum-

Academy @ Lucan Sarsfields, 9.30am

mer Kellogg’s Cul Camp. Football takes

for Camogie and Girls Football, 10am

place July 6-10 and hurling / Camogie

for Boys Football and Hurling, for boys

July 13 to 17, plus football on August 10

and girls born in 2008, 2009 and 2010 –

to 14, hurling / Camogie August 17 to

12th Lock, Lucan - Contact Johnny on

21. See website for details.

085-1294102.

The Club Shop is open on Thursdays

There was no winner of this week’s

7:30pm to 8:30pm and Saturday’s from

€19,000 Lotto draw numbers were

10:30am to 1:30pm.

2, 8, 19 and 20. This week’s jackpot is

Lucan District Credit Union GAA

€19,500.

GazetteSPORT all your lucan sports coverage from page 28-31

kennedy cup: Dublin sides suffer rare defeats in season closing Limerick intra-league tournament P30

june 18-24, 2015

classy Rivervalley a hit at taekwondo worlds P29

Key players return to face Kildare  nathan kelly

sport@dublingazette.com

IN the midst of preparations for next Sunday’s Leinster Championship semi-final against Kildare, Dublin senior football boss and Clondalkin Round Towers legend Jim Gavin took time out to provide his thoughts on the Lilywhites as well as the much-debated championship structure. The former Clonburris National School pupil is currently preparing his team to face a Kildare side who blitzed Laois in a stunning second-half performance in their quarter-final replay last Saturday, winning 3-19 to 1-11. On the capitals next-door neighbours, Gavin said: “I’ve been impressed. I think

they’ll have that advantage over us of having played two tough championship games. To have that momentum is invaluable. “Their second-half performance against Laois was very impressive, 3-19 in any game is a great return. I think in both games they showed their experience and got bodies behind the ball and dug the result out. It’s going to be a big challenge next Sunday.” Gavin will once again be without the services of Ger Brennan who is ruled out with a long-term achilles problem. “He should be back very soon,” said Gavin. “I’d be hesitant to put an exact date in the calendar but he’s been working very closely with the athletics team. “He’s kept

himself in good physical condition, done a lot of work in the gym, and his body composition is excellent,” Gavin continued. Positive news on the injury front is that Kilmacud Crokes pair Rory O’Carroll and Cian O’Sullivan (both hamstring), and Denis Bastick (ankle) should be available. With there being constant discussion that the senior football championship needs reform, the Dublin boss was quizzed for his thoughts on the matter. “All I can do at the moment is focus on the current format,” he said. When pushed on whether he thinks players deserve to play more than six games to win an AllIreland championship, Gavin said: “Oh absolutely they do, yes.”

Jim Gavin is being cautious about Kildare